Cancún to Receive International ‘Tree City of the World’ Recognition for Urban Forestry Programs

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Cancún will soon receive the international “Tree City of the World” designation, recognizing its urban tree planting and environmental conservation programs over recent years.

Fernando Haro, head of the municipal Ecology department, announced that the official award ceremony will take place on May 29 in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, with representatives from other Mexican cities that have also developed sustainability and environmental care projects.

Haro explained that the designation places Cancún among 48 Mexican cities internationally recognized for their reforestation strategies, tree maintenance, and strengthening of urban green spaces. He noted that this is the first time the municipality has obtained this distinction, marking a significant advance for the city’s environmental image.

The awards are granted by the Reforestemos México foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting sustainable projects and actions focused on ecosystem recovery, forest preservation, and strengthening ecological policies across different regions of the country.

Haro credited Mayor Ana Paty Peralta for driving the application that allowed Cancún to be evaluated and considered for the international program.

One of the key factors in achieving the certification was the high survival rate of trees planted in municipal campaigns, currently averaging close to 90%, reflecting the follow-up and maintenance carried out after reforestation drives.

Urban tree planting programs have helped recover public spaces, provide shade on avenues, improve the appearance of parks, and reduce heat effects in some areas of Cancún. These actions also strengthen environmental awareness among citizens, especially young people and students who participate in ecological campaigns.

Haro emphasized that urban growth makes it essential to continue promoting plant conservation strategies, as trees provide important benefits for air quality, thermal regulation, and environmental protection within the city.

In addition to planting drives, the municipality has implemented monitoring, maintenance, and care programs to prevent losses from drought, pests, or weather events.

The “Tree City of the World” recognition will help project Cancún internationally as a municipality committed to the environment and urban sustainability, and will strengthen future ecological strategies and opportunities for green infrastructure projects.